North Sound Stories

20th Annual Sorticulture at Legion Park

Bonnie Johnson - Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Fellow greenthumbs celebrate the return of Sorticulture, Everett’s cherished annual tradition that brings outdoor living and art together, free and
available to all from Friday, June 9th to Sunday the 11th this year.

In a press release from the City of Everett, Lisa Newland shared that, “Whether you’re a greenthumb or not, Sorticulture is just the place to come
to get the yard-inspiration you need to jazz up your own outdoor environment.”

And it couldn’t be truer. Blackthumbed or greenthumbed gardeners (or those of us destined to the extremes of plastic potted ficus trees) alike can
find something to enjoy at this fee-free venue.

Carol Thomas, the Cultural Arts Manager for the City of Everett, was more than happy to expound on the roots of the movement. “Sorticulture began as
a one day art and garden show in the Evergreen Arboretum within Legion Park before actually expanding to the park itself.”

As it grew in popularity, there came with it an organic and natural expansion, not just in regard to the physical footprint of the event itself, but
in the hours needed in order to meet the demands of its enthusiastic attendees, leaping up to a three day venue in 2008, only nine years from its
launch.

Even the name of Sorticulture rings true in homage of its creative origins. According to Carol Thomas, the moniker came about as the brainchild of
Elizabeth Smith, who at the time of its inception, was on the Arts Council of Snohomish County, though these days she too works for the City. While
in discussion about their upcoming venue, Ms. Smith had been bantering about the content, art and audience for it, citing that it was “sort of
art” and “sort of culture”, when the inspiration struck. Sorticulture was born, and here to stay.

Sorticulture caters and draws from a wide variety of interests, and unlike some venues, is made very easy to attend. You can park at EvCC’s N Broadway
lot, and nab up the free shuttle across the street, or even bike your way there. As luck would have it, there is an attended corral where you can
leave your bike and gear with Sharing Wheels volunteers.

Children have a variety of free activities, from face painting to planting, to the playground itself, and after you’ve shopped for art, or that unique
Father’s Day Gift for your beloved putterer, you can kick up your heels in the Wine Garden, hosted by the Everett Rowing Association and catch
any of the eleven live bands. In addition to the free activities, Housing Hope is letting you relax, hands-free and clutter-free with a purchase
hold/pick up station (because who wants to enjoy wine while balancing a birdhouse on your lap and a trellis under one arm?) although a five dollar
donation would be appreciated for their vigilance and care. Please be sure to collect a green Pick Up Pass for your trip back to the station with
your vehicle in order to collect your purchases.

The Everett Animal Shelter, one of the proud sponsors, will also be on-site with an adoption booth. Now is the perfect time of year to pick up a pet,
as the long warm days are great for house-breaking new canine companions, and sunny days are a good time for cats to perch on windowsills as they
adjust to their new and fabulous life with you.

Lastly, there comes a dose of local celebrity. KING 5’s Ciscoe Morris will be there, as well as two meet and greet opportunities for Poster Artist
Kimberly Williams Mattson, and miniature gardener Janit Calvo of Two Green Thumbs Miniature Garden Center. Hours and details for their appearances
can be seen here. Lastly, please see
below for detailed hours of the musical performances, as well as Ciscoe Morris’ speaking schedule.